Discover Different Ways to Benefit from Ginger

Consuming fresh ginger isn’t enjoyable for everyone, but fortunately there are various ways to take advantage of its benefits, thanks to modern technology.

 

Fresh Ginger

Mature ginger possesses a strong flavor and aroma that might be too overwhelming for some. To have that milder taste, use ginger that’s been harvested at 5 months.

At this age, it is not yet considered mature—it has a tender pinkish flesh, bears thin skin, and gives a mild yet vibrant flavor. This young ginger is what you get on the side when you order sushi, only it’s been pickled in sweet vinegar.

Research shows that gingerols, the major constituents of ginger, are found slightly higher in a fresh rhizome than in its dried form. On the other hand, shogaol, another potent constituent, is found in higher levels in dry than fresh ginger.

If you’re looking for a warmer and spicier flavor, choose a mature ginger. You can slice or grate it to include in your dishes or let it simmer to make hot tea. According to the researchers at the University of Georgia and Georgia State College and University, a few tablespoons of grated ginger will work to help ease muscle pain caused by exercise.

To store it, keep ginger in an airtight container away from heat and light. You can also freeze (and then thaw) it, if you just need the juice for later use.

 

Ginger Capsules

Gingerbread or ginger tea may smell wonderful, does not have enough ginger to be effective.  However, a capsule that contains 255 mg of ginger is already equivalent to about a bushel of this root.

Lynda Brown and Bryan Vargo of Arthritis Foundation advise to initially try a 100- to 200-mg ginger capsule every day for 4 to 6 weeks to observe its effect on your body, upon the approval of your doctor.  The regular dosage though, in whatever form, must not go over 4 grams a day.

Dr. Roberta Lee, Vice Chair of the Department of Integrative Medicine at Beth Israel Medical Center in New York, also says that ginger capsules bring greater benefits than other forms. The best products would be from brands that use the super-critical extraction method, because this produces the purest ginger and will be most effective.

She adds that it would be wise to take the capsules with food, since concentrated doses might upset the stomach.

 

Ginger Extract or Oil

If you plan to extract the oil, it is best to use a rhizome that’s been harvested at 9 months or longer. At this age, the root is pungent and bears a tough skin.

Ginger oil is the result of distilling fresh or dried ginger. Its consistency is thin, and the color is light yellow.

The main advantage of ginger oil over the other forms is that it can be used topically conveniently. In this manner, it can relieve gas (when applied over the abdomen), backache, arthritis, muscle pain, rheumatism, and fractures, as well as stimulate your circulatory system and revitalize your libido (when applied as a massage).

2 or 3 drops of ginger oil may also be inhaled via diffuser, vaporizer, or cotton ball or handkerchief to help relieve sinusitis, sore throat, runny nose, and energize your mind and body.

Aromatherapists use ginger essential oil to soothe away dizziness, stress, exhaustion and anxiety.

Click here to find out how you can make your own ginger oil infusion at home.

 

Ginger Powder (Make Tea, Poultice and Tincture)

Ginger powder is easy to store and has a shelf life that can last up to 2-3 years.

Aside from using it as a spice in cooking, ginger powder is usually consumed by making it into tea. Add freshly boiled water to about 1/4 teaspoon of good quality ginger powder for a rejuvenating drink.

You can sweeten it with honey or sugar. For even greater convenience, you may now also simply grab ginger tea bags from your favorite grocery. But if you’re interested in making your own ginger powder, visit this site to learn how to do it the traditional Indian way.

Ginger powder can also be used to make poultice. This is a tried-and-tested traditional home remedy for body aches and pains. Mix the powder with a little water to make a thick paste. Apply it over the affected area to form a thick coating. You will feel some heat from it. Once it dries, you may wash it off.

You can also make a tincture with ginger powder by mixing it with some alcohol. A tincture is a liquid extract made from one or more herbs, to be taken orally. Go here to find out how to make a tincture with ginger.

 

Adapted from the Original Article posted by JuicingwithG.com:

 

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